Martyrdom video

Martyrdom video

Martyrdom videos are video recordings, generally from Islamist activists who are about to take part in a suicide attack and expect to die during their intended actions. They typically include a statement by the person preparing to be a martyr for their cause. While they are generally of amateur quality,[citation needed] some of them incorporate text, music and sentimental clips. The people in these videos typically sit or stand in front of a black Islamic flag.

Such videos are widely circulated for propaganda purposes following the event by the groups behind them.

The videos are intended to preserve their memory of their subjects, and to justify and glorify their actions. They may also serve the function of committing their makers to their actions, by making a public statement of commitment that they feel they cannot go back on.

Martyrdom videos have been common features of Middle Eastern and Muslim fundamentalist terrorism, and most recently in that associated with al-Qaeeda.

See also